There is much written about the benefits of Vitamin A usage in skincare. It is lauded as the anti ageing go to and is also listed as one of the three essential Vitamins of A, C and E for skin health.
There is much written about the benefits of Vitamin A usage in skincare. It is lauded as the anti ageing go to and is also listed as one of the three essential Vitamins of A, C and E for skin health.
I have to admit I am a big fan of Vitamin A and I thoroughly believe if you find the right one for you, the results speak for themselves.
When I say the right one….I mean one that is easily converted in the skin to a usable form of Vitamin A and one that is not going to cause you endless irritation. Retinoids are well known for their ability to produce redness and flaky skin, giving some people bad experiences and avoiding it. This is known as retinoid dermatitis or retinoid irritation. Nobody really wants to have their skin looking like this. And you needn’t!
Vitamin A refers to all forms of Vitamin A (also known as retinoids), these include retinol (natural alcohol form), the two most well known esters of Vitamin A are retinyl palmitate and retinyl acetate: an esther is a chemical formed when an alcohol is combined with an organic acid, Retinyl acetate (retinol combined with acetic acid), Retinyl palmitate (retinol combined with palmitic acid). Retinoic acid is the acid form of Vitamin, it can be used by the body at a cellular level.
What’s the secret?
The main consideration is taking reasonable precautions and not going all in if it is your first time using a Vitamin A based product. Vitamin A serums, creams, oils are generally recommended to be approached by using only 2 to 3 times a week initially on alternate days. If you are particularly sensitive, this could be just once a week. Your skin does become accustomed to Vitamin A and in no time you will be using it 2, 3 or 4 times week with no ill effects.
What happens if my skin starts peeling?
Because Vitamin A does increase cellular turnover, some flaking is possible. I recommend to back off the use of Vitamin A until it clears, then recommence. Another way to ease into use of a Vitamin A is to apply it with a moisturiser. Our new karmin Bio Active Vitamin A is already formulated with a rich blend of omega 3, 6 and 9 oils, however added to your nightly moisturiser you’re going to be treading super gently.
What does Vitamin A actually do?
For Vitamin A to work effectively it is converted into retinoic acid, this is a usable form for the skin. Retinoic acid is a prescription drug, therefore skincare companies use a variety of Vitamin A derivatives which can be converted in the skin. One important factor is the way in which the ingredient coverts and the actual formulation of the product. Much like taking vitamins orally, not all will be absorbed and utilised.
We use an ester of all trans retinoic acid which is the most active non-prescription form available for cosmetics. It has low irritation levels and provides effective delivery.
We will be re-launching our 1% retinol lotion later this year, which contains pure encapsulated retinol. This is also a very effective form of delivery, for those not wanting an oil based product and also for those less sensitive.
Retinoids work on a cellular level to help maintain optimal health of our skin. It is a fantastic companion for ageing or acne prone skin, as well as hyper pigmentation. Skin cell receptors learn to recognise retinoids and build up absorption and tolerance to this potent and effective active.
The magic of Retinol works directly on the skin’s matrix of collagen and elastin, therefore fortifying the skin against skin damage over time, delivering a brighter, smoother and more youthful appearance.
Over time, retinoids have been shown to:
- Reduce the appearance of large pores caused by sun damage or congestion.
- Stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production
- Minimise existing and prevent new fine lines & wrinkles
- Prevent UV induced skin damage
- Clear acne related symptoms
For great results I recommend Iddha 4X Vitamin C booster prior to application